Integrating XR and robotic fabrication for site-sensitive design structures

This study investigates the integration of Mixed Reality (MR) and robotic fabrication technology to offer architects a way to integrate real-time environmental data directly into their digital design process. Digital technologies in the recent decade have significantly transformed how architects and designers conceive, visualise, and communicate their design within the site and construction limitations. This has prompted the emergence of new and innovative workflows, reshaping the way architectural design is practiced. While previous research has largely focused on generative design approaches, such as parametric and algorithm-based design, recent explorations emphasise the potential of MR and robotic fabrication to seamlessly integrate real-time environmental data into the early stages of the design process. The research methodology consists of two primary phases. The first phase begins as an investigation into how MR can bridge real-time environments with digital modelling environments to provide site-specific feedback during the design phase. This process also integrates robotic fabrication technology to streamline the transition from digital design to physical realisation. In doing so, the study proposes a site-to-model-to-fabrication synchronous design workflow. Early findings suggest that integrating MR feedback into the design process enhances spatial understanding and enables more instant informed design decisions. The second phase involves the application of the proposed workflow in a Research through Design project focused on a small-scale public infrastructure in a regional Victoria, Australia. Based on the project, the early findings suggest that the integration of Mixed Reality and robotic fabrication facilitated a more seamless transition and potentially enhanced the efficiency by giving greater agency to the designer.

keywords: mixed reality; robotic fabrication

• with: Fernando Andres Amaya (lead)
• year: May 2024 — July 2024